What is Palm Oil? Where is It Used?

Frequently encountered in the food, cosmetics, and energy sectors, palm oil has become a subject of discussion in recent years due to its health effects and environmental consequences. Also known as “palm oil,” this vegetable oil has attracted significant attention among industrial oils thanks to its durability and cost-effectiveness.

What is Palm Oil (CBS Oil)?

Palm oil is a natural vegetable oil obtained from the fruit of the oil palm tree, scientifically known as Elaeis guineensis. Crude palm oil, which has a reddish color, is known for its high saturated fatty acid content. Being semi-solid at room temperature, this oil has held an important place among industrial oils since the 20th century.

Today, palm oil is a key ingredient in many packaged foods, soaps, shampoos, cosmetics, and even biofuel production.

Where Is Palm Oil Used?

CBS (Crystalized Palm Stearin) oil is one of the derivatives of palm oil and is typically characterized by a higher melting point. It is used in food products that require firmness and texture. CBS oil is commonly utilized in products like confectionery and margarine. Here are the main areas where CBS oil is used:

1. Confectionery and Chocolates

▪ CBS oil provides a smoother texture in chocolates and confectioneries and improves the melting point of the chocolate. It also extends shelf life and enhances moldability.

▪ It enhances the texture of wafers and cakes, contributing firmness and a more consistent structure to the final products.

2. Margarine and Fats

▪ CBS oil is used in margarine as a firming and consistency-enhancing agent. Its high melting point gives margarine a stable structural integrity.

▪ Palm stearin can also be used in cooking oils, helping maintain the texture of cooked dishes.

3. As a Thickening Agent in Food Products

▪ CBS oil is used as a thickening agent in puddings and creams, imparting firmness and a smooth texture.

▪ It is an ideal component for dairy desserts, as it does not liquefy easily and provides a denser, more solid structure.

4. Frying Oils

▪ CBS oil is suitable for use in frying oils. Due to its high melting point, it withstands high temperatures and contributes to crispier frying results.

5. Biscuits and Snacks

▪ In biscuits and other bakery products, CBS oil is used to provide dough consistency and structural firmness.

6. Beverage Products

▪ CBS oil can also be used in creamy beverages. It is particularly preferred in milk-based drinks to increase density and deliver a creamy texture.

CBS oil is used to manufacture more stable, long-lasting, and texture-optimized food products.

How Should Palm Oil Be Evaluated by Consumers?

Consumers should pay attention to the source and documented production process of palm oil in terms of quality and sustainability. Products certified by RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) indicate environmentally responsible and ethically sound production practices.

For those asking, “What are the health benefits of palm oil from an individual perspective?” — consumption of palm oil in limited amounts as part of a balanced diet is generally considered acceptable. However, excessive consumption of processed foods may increase palm oil intake; therefore, it is important to prefer natural and minimally processed food items.

Palm oil stands at the heart of the modern production world due to both its place among industrial oils and its importance in the global supply chain. Nevertheless, alongside the advantages it offers, its potential adverse effects must not be overlooked. With an awareness of sustainable production and balanced consumption, palm oil usage can contribute both to personal health and environmental responsibility.